RAD Releases Version 2.0 of the Vmux-400 GSM A-bis/A-ter Optimization Gateway

RAD Data Communications has released version 2.0 of its Vmux-400 GSM A-bis/A-ter optimization gateway. Version 2.0 provides T1 support and point-to-multipoint connectivity over any uplink.

 

The Vmux-400 GSM A-bis/A-ter optimization gateway is a standalone device, complementing RAD’s Vmux voice compression products, which enables cellular operators to lower backhaul costs across their Radio Access Network. The Vmux-400 enables cellular operators to achieve better bandwidth utilization and reduce backhaul expenses by offering up to 3:1 bandwidth optimization.

 

“Voice compression technologies enable mobile operators to slash bandwidth on the BSC-to-MSC segment of the backhaul network, as well as between MSCs and the MSC-to-PSTN section,” explains Toby Korall, Senior Product Line Manager at RAD Data Communications. “Because voice traffic between the BTS and the BSC is already compressed, no further compression is recommended,” he continues. “But by eliminating redundant silence and idle frames in the A-bis protocol, the Vmux-400 realizes significant reductions in bandwidth utilization, operational expenditures (Opex) and capital expenditures (Capex).”

 

Supporting both point-to-point and point-to-multipoint GSM A-bis/A-ter optimization, the Vmux-400 is particularly useful in applications where landlines do not exist or are not available, and expensive satellite and/or microwave links, with their limited bandwidth, are used to backhaul the GSM traffic. Due to the high cost of satellite and microwave transmission, the Vmux-400’s return on investment is very fast.

The Vmux-400 supports optimized data, GPRS and EDGE over multiple timeslots for cellular transmission networks, as well as standard GSM A-ter optimization and AMR codec rates from 4.75 to 12.2 kbps. The standards-based Vmux-400 is interoperable with equipment from major switch vendors, facilitating connectivity in a multi-vendor environment.

A unique feature allows for reliable regeneration of the TDM-based clock for synchronized network operation. This enables the use of packet-switched networks for the transport of cellular voice traffic.

 

The Vmux-400 is a compact 1U-high, half 19"-wide unit that can be mounted in a 19" rack. The small form factor makes the Vmux an ideal solution for installation in small BTS cabinets. It can groom the traffic of two E1s over a single E1, serial or 10/100BaseT Ethernet uplink. Vmux-400 may be supplied with an internal AC or DC power supply.